Cellulite is fat, typically found in areas where women store fat for reproduction. It has a dimpled, uneven appearance. Being overweight makes it worse but it is a universal problem and affects women of all shapes and sizes.
What Causes Cellulite?
Fat lies beneath the skin, harnessed in cavities, which are separated by collagen fibres or netting. Excess fat in the body bulges between the netting and becomes visible on the top layers of the dermis. It mostly affects women because of the way our fat is stored in the body. As we age it can get worse because the collagen fibres, which hold the fat in place and keep the skin firm, become less effective, resulting in saggy skin.
Research has also linked cellulite with high oestrogen levels. Oestrogen encourages the body to store fat in preparation for pregnancy and to protect our reproductive organs. It also breaks down our supply of collagen to loosen the muscles in preparation for childbirth. Cellulite has been linked to the contraceptive pill, HRT, pregnancy and menstruation.
Other causes include:
- Smoking.
- A poor diet or crash dieting.
- Constipation or IBS.
- Lack of exercise.
- Stress.
- Poor liver and thyroid function.
We contacted the British Association of Dermatology for advice on cellulite. They could not advise as cellulite is not classed as a 'skin disease' that requires treatment. However, it can be a sign that certain lifestyle factors and habits need to be addressed.
Self-testing for Cellulite
Pinch and hold the skin on various areas of your body to see if there is a difference in tone and texture. If cellulite is present you will see and feel dimpled areas of fat.
Anti-Cellulite Treatments
Women spend around £602m a year on skincare products, according to recent figures from Mintel. The array of treatments can be confusing not to mention costly. Here is an overview:-
- Endermology – this involves using a machine to massage body tissues to break down cellulite and toxins.
- Ionithermie – a body scrub and pressure point massage using thermal clay and essential oils. Electrical pulsing is transmitted via pads attached to the body to help break down fats and restore skin tone.
- Mesotherapy – homeopathic medicines and vitamin C are injected into the affected areas to help break down cellulite and improve circulation and lymph drainage.
- Anti-cellulite creams – a study in the journal Dermatologic Surgery* found that anti-cellulite creams containing the mild stimulant Methylxanthine can reduce the amount of fat cells in the skin. Caffeine, theobromine and theophylline are the key ingredients in Methylxanthine.
- Hydrotherapy – you can use a specialized hydro pool, invest in equipment to use at home or do it the old-fashioned way – alternate blasts of hot and cold water! Hot water aids circulation and cold water improves muscle tone. Combine this with dry skin body brushing to boost circulation and regular saunas and steams.
Diet & Exercise to Reduce Cellulite
'Cellulite needs to be treated holistically via diet and regular exercise', says Sharon Forster, director of The Sussex School of Complementary Therapies. Studies have shown that regular aerobic exercise and a low fat diet reduces the amount of fat cells in the body. Cut down on saturated fats, processed foods, alcohol, caffeine and sugar. Eat foods high in vitamin K, as these aid blood flow (leafy greens, kale, spinach). Fruit contains antioxidants and helps prevent cell damage. Fibre keeps us regular and prevents toxin accumulation. Keep small bottles of water on your desk to encourage you to sip it throughout the day.
Exfoliate your body regularly and learn a few self-massage techniques to use on problem areas.
Anti-cellulite treatments are pampering and will give you a psychological lift but they aren’t the only way to tackle cellulite. The old-fashioned approach works in the long-term and benefits your overall health as well as targeting those dimply thighs.
References
A double-blind controlled study in Dermatologic Surgery: Modification of Subcutaneous Adipose Tissue by a Methylxanthine, Tim Lesser, BS, Ed Ritvo, MD, and Lawrence S. Moy, MD. Volume 25 Issue 6, Pages 455 - 462, published online: 24 Dec 2001.
This article is for general information purposes only. Consult your health practitioner for specific guidance on a health issue.
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